Extravagant Musical Performance at Imperial Spa's Grand Hall
The Imperial Spa in Karlovy Vary, a significant architectural landmark dating back to 1895, has been transformed into a versatile concert and events venue. Prague-based studio Petr Hájek Architekti orchestrated the initiative, merging the historic spa's industrial character with modern ingenuity.
The epicenter of the spa's innovative engineering was its central courtyard, which has been reimagined as a multifunctional hall. The venue offers an advanced level of spatial flexibility, with adaptive acoustics and state-of-the-art scenic technology resonating with the hall's pioneering heritage.
Inspired by the spa's historic peat conveyor mechanisms, the designers introduced a dynamic system of rotating and retractable acoustic panels that adapt to various performance requirements. This system functions as an instrumental piece within the hall, with wooden resonators integrated into the orchestra floor, rotating triangular panels fine-tuning sound distribution, and a retractable orchestral shell directing music towards the audience.
The multifunctional space caters to a wide range of cultural events beyond concerts, such as theatre, dance, and film screenings. A retractable seating arrangement and adjustable sound system cater to these diverse needs. Dark curtains provide a fully immersive experience, while technical components discreetly integrate within the preserved historic volume to maintain its original clarity.
Steel supports the structural core, while expanded metal and plywood panels enhance the space's warmth and optimize sound dynamics. Logistical challenges during construction obliged the use of prefabricated elements, assembled within the space via an opening in the roof, minimizing disruption to the building's historic fabric while ensuring accuracy in installation.
The Karlovy Vary Region served as the client, joining forces with architectural collaboration Petr Hájek ARCHITEKTI, Gradior Tech for structural steelwork and mechanical engineering, AVT Group for acoustic design and audiovisual technology, and other contributing partners.
The venue's adaptive design and technology contribute significantly to the city's cultural landscape, demonstrating the potential of repurposing historical sites to create dynamic,modern spaces for entertainment and artistic expression.
The innovative multifunctional hall in the central courtyard of the Imperial Spa now hosts a variety of events, including music concerts, theater performances, dance events, and film screenings. The adaptive acoustics and advanced technology, reminiscent of the spa's historic peat conveyor mechanisms, create a seamless blend of music, technology, and the lifestyle and home-and-garden aesthetics in this repurposed architectural landmark.
